Kane Parsons, the creator of the viral indie horror film "The Backrooms," has publicly stated that he is investigating reports of A24, the studio behind the film adaptation, issuing copyright takedown notices against fan-created artwork inspired by the original internet phenomenon. The situation came to light when a Reddit user, known as GnarlyNet, reported that their "Backrooms"-inspired artwork was targeted.
GnarlyNet explained that the artwork in question was a recreation of the distinctive yellow wallpaper pattern from the 2019 image that originally spawned the "Backrooms" lore. This image predates A24's film adaptation and has been a foundational element for the community that has grown around the concept. The user expressed disappointment, stating that while they respect the rights associated with the specific film adaptation, these rights should not extend to ownership of the entire "Backrooms" concept, its visual language, or the community lore.
"I would have hoped that A24 would celebrate that creative history rather than take action against independent artists who were, just like them, inspired by it," GnarlyNet wrote. They added that the takedown request was submitted "on behalf of 'A24 Films LLC,'" although they could not independently confirm the exact source of the complaint beyond what was provided by the platform where the art was hosted.
Parsons, who has a history of creating popular "Backrooms" content on YouTube and is credited with bringing the concept to mainstream attention through his film, responded to the initial Reddit post indicating his involvement. "I'm looking into this. Should not be happening," Parsons stated. His intervention suggests a potential misunderstanding or overreach in the copyright enforcement, especially given the collaborative and community-driven nature of the "Backrooms" phenomenon.